Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that can affect anyone, though it’s most often diagnosed in children and young people. Unlike Type 2 diabetes, which develops gradually, Type 1 usually comes on suddenly — sometimes in just a few days or weeks. Recognising the signs and symptoms early is crucial because untreated Type 1 diabetes can quickly become life-threatening.
In this blog, we’ll explore the most common warning signs, explain why they happen, and highlight what to do if you notice them in yourself or a loved one.
Why Early Recognition Is Important
When the pancreas stops producing insulin, glucose builds up in the blood instead of entering the body’s cells for energy. This leads to high blood sugar levels (hyperglycaemia), which can cause a cascade of symptoms.
Without treatment, dangerous levels of acids called ketones can develop in the blood, leading to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) — a medical emergency. This is why early recognition and diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes can save lives.
The “4 Ts” of Type 1 Diabetes
A simple way to remember the main signs is through the “4 Ts” campaign, promoted by diabetes charities in the UK.
Toilet 🚽 – Needing to go to the toilet far more often than usual, especially at night. This happens because the body is trying to flush out excess glucose through urine.
Thirsty 💧 – Constantly thirsty and unable to quench it, even with plenty of fluids.
Tired 😴 – Feeling exhausted and lacking energy, as the body can’t use glucose effectively for fuel.
Thinner ⚖️ – Rapid, unexplained weight loss, caused by the body breaking down fat and muscle for energy instead.
These four symptoms are the most widely recognised, but they aren’t the only ones to look out for.
Other Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
Alongside the 4 Ts, some people experience additional symptoms, including:
Blurred vision 👓 – Caused by fluid changes in the eye’s lens due to high blood sugar.
Frequent infections 🦠 – Cuts and wounds may take longer to heal, and infections like thrush may become more common. When i was diagnosed in the early 90's I'd had a run or back to back ear infections.
Fruity-smelling breath 🍎 – A sign of ketones in the body, which appear when it starts burning fat for energy.
Nausea, stomach pain and vomiting 🤢 – Often linked to DKA.
Changes in mood or behaviour 😠 – Irritability, mood swings, or difficulty concentrating due to fluctuating blood sugar.
Headaches and dizziness 🤯 – Another result of uncontrolled glucose levels.
Bed wetting / Accidents in younger children. Both Cameron and I were diagnosed aged 4, both well past bed wetting and toilet mishaps, but both began having accidents and bed wetting around 3 days before showing other symptoms of Type 1.
Signs of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
If Type 1 diabetes isn’t treated quickly, it can lead to DKA, which requires urgent medical attention. Symptoms include:
Deep, rapid breathing
Stomach pain and vomiting
Extreme tiredness or confusion
Fruity-smelling breath
Unconsciousness in severe cases
Extreme thirst
If you suspect DKA, call 999 or go to A&E immediately.
Who Is at Risk?
Type 1 diabetes isn’t linked to lifestyle or diet. It’s an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Risk factors include:
Family history – Having a close relative with Type 1 increases the risk slightly.
Age – It’s most commonly diagnosed in children and young adults, though it can occur at any age. Read more about Type 1 Diabetes here.
Other autoimmune conditions – People with conditions like coeliac disease or thyroid disease may be at higher risk.
What to Do If You Notice Symptoms
If you or your child are showing signs of Type 1 diabetes:
Seek medical advice immediately – Contact your GP or go to urgent care.
Do not delay – Even mild symptoms can escalate quickly.
Get a blood test – A simple finger-prick test for glucose levels can confirm if further checks are needed.
Don't be fobbed off. Too often we hear stories of diabetes being misdiagnosed, people becoming severely unwell and even dying after presenting with symptoms of type 1 and it incorrect;y being diagnosed as something else. Always trust your instinct. Always ask for a blood sugar check.
Join us in calling for Lyla's Law (read more here)
Living With Type 1 Diabetes
Although a diagnosis may feel overwhelming at first, it’s important to remember that people with Type 1 diabetes can live long, healthy, and fulfilling lives. With modern insulin therapies, continuous glucose monitors, insulin pumps, and strong support networks, daily management is more flexible than ever before.
Many people go on to thrive in sports, careers, travel, and everyday life while managing Type 1 diabetes successfully.
Final Thoughts
Recognising the signs and symptoms of Type 1 diabetes is essential for early diagnosis and treatment. Remember the 4 Ts — Toilet, Thirsty, Tired, Thinner — and seek urgent medical advice if you or a loved one are experiencing them. Raising awareness could save a life.